Frequently Asked Questions

 CBT is an evidence-based mode of treatment that is functionally different from typical "talk therapy".  Together we focus on reducing or eliminating unwanted thoughts, and reducing their impact on behaviors or actions.  We create concrete goals that are evaluated throughout the treatment process. All treatment plans are made collaboratively, in order to enhance motivation and effectiveness of treatment.  CBT is proven by research to be effective in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders and many other issues.

 ERP stands for Exposure with Response Prevention.  It is part of the gold-standard of OCD treatment, along with being a part of many other anxiety-based disorders.  ERP is a collaboratively-designed technique to allow clients to approach their fears and resist compulsions in a slow, graduated manner.  The goal is experience the avoided emotion or experience and allow it remain present, without escaping or distracting from it.  In this manner, we can remind ourselves of the inherent ability to tolerate much more than we think we can.  ERP treatment reminds us that we can do hard things.

 A great synonym for mindfulness is 'awareness', while others define it as 'paying attention'.  When our day to day stresses leave us worrying about the 'what-ifs' of tomorrow or regretting actions of the past, we lose our ability to stay present and connected what's going on right in front of us - or even within us.  Mindfulness training teaches us how to anchor to the present moment, leaving us with the ability to enjoy or simply better focus on our day to day experiences.  Accentuating CBT with mindfulness skills allows for a deeper awareness of those unhelpful thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, actions and urges, enhancing the treatment process. 

 This level of treatment is appropriate for those who suffer from moderate to severe symptoms and/or those who have been unsuccessful with previous outpatient therapy.  This is a more focused treatment than traditional weekly therapy and will benefit those highly motivated for improvement.  Education is paramount in this program and a strong foundation of understanding must be developed in the first stage of treatment to ensure effective progress. 

In cases of moderate to severe OCD and other anxiety-based disorders, treatment can require up to nine hours per week.  However, we can adjust the hours per week based on the needs of the person.  Treatment utilizes Exposure with Response Prevention (Erp) along with relaxation, stress management, and other cognitive and behavioral techniques to create lasting change.  

In cases of moderate to severe eating disorders, the most beneficial treatment may be at an outpatient clinic or residential facility.  However, if intensive treatment with me is indicated and appropriate, multiple sessions per week will be provided along with a multi-modal, treatment team approach.  A dietitian and psychiatrist will be required to begin intensive work.   Recommendations can be made, if needed.

I currently take employer-sponsored Aetna plans and Lyra EAP.  Please contact me directly fur further questions.

Out of network services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. In this case you would be paying the session fee and then seeking reimbursement form your insurance provider.  I do not direct bill insurance companies, or provide service as part of an insurance panel.  However, I can provide you with a statement of services or superbill that has all the information needed to seek reimbursement from your insurance company.  Please call your insurance company to inquire about their policy regarding out of network providers.
 

Insurance companies can often tie the hands of clinicians in offering effective care, usually by significantly limiting the number of sessions for which they are willing to pay.  These companies also require a diagnosis that can have a negative impact on rates as well as on changing insurance companies in the future. 

Please contact me to discuss fees.  Fees, policies and any other questions can be discussed during the initial phone consultation.   

Please call 954-812-9007 anytime. 

 Once an appointment is made, I ask for 48 hours notice of any cancellations.  If a cancellation is made within the 48 hr window, a charge for the missed appointment will be made.